Festive fun at Whitburn Winter Festival Fun Day this weekend

Daniel Prince

Families can get into the Christmas spirit thanks to a day of festive fun in Whitburn this weekend.

The annual Whitburn Winter Festival Fun Day is taking place on Saturday from 11am until 3pm, in the Barnes Institute in East Street, and will be officially opened by the Mayor of South Tyneside, Coun Alan Smith.

A £1 entry fee applies which allows children to visit Santa, have their face painted and enjoy a range of games, while adults will receive a complimentary festive drink.

There will be a wide range of stalls selling gifts, from arts and crafts to festive food and drink.

Visitors can also enjoy a raffle, competitions, as well as the Grand Winter Draw - featuring up to 40 prizes – which will be drawn by the Mayor.

There will also be magic tricks performed by magician Magic Mike, as well as carol singing.

Local shops within the village will be joining in with the Christmas spirit with festive-themed window dressings.

There will also be Christmas carols and seasonal songs from local children.

Santa will also be stopping off at the event to meet with youngsters, handing out gifts and taking Christmas wish lists in his grotto.

The event has been welcomed by the three Whitburn and Marsden ward members, Coun Tracey Dixon, Coun Peter Boyack and Coun Joyce Welsh.

Coun Dixon, said: “This is a truly wonderful community event which brings not only the residents in Whitburn together, but also attracts visitors from across the borough to celebrate the festive season.

“There is nothing better than spending time with the family and at Whitburn Winter Festival Fun Day there is something for everyone from stalls selling festive gifts and treats to Father Christmas wishing youngsters a ‘Merry Christmas’."

The Whitburn Winter Festival Fun Day has been organised by the Barnes Institute and volunteers, with support from South Tyneside Council, as part of the village’s Winter Festival.

The Barnes Institute Café will be serving a selection of traditional mince pies, turkey and stuffing sandwiches, soup and refreshments to visitors.

Carol Shield, treasurer of the Whitburn Festival Committee, said: “The Barnes Trustees are delighted to host the annual Winter Festival Fun Day again in this historic Institute building which belongs to the people of Whitburn.

“Support for the event from the village and further afield is always amazing and all proceeds on the day will go towards ensuring the future of the Summer and Winter Festivals as well as the upkeep and maintenance of the Barnes Institute.

“We are very grateful for the generosity of all who donate and come along, and for the invaluable help we receive from our local councillors, East Shields and Whitburn CAF, South Tyneside Council and South Tyneside Homes.”

For more information about Whitburn Winter Festival, visit www.southtyneside.gov.uk/whatson.